pier

noun

ˈpir 

1

: an intermediate support for the adjacent ends of two bridge spans

2

: a structure (such as a breakwater) extending into navigable water for use as a landing place or promenade or to protect or form a harbor

3

: a vertical structural support: such as

a

: the wall between two openings

b

: pillar, pilaster

c

: a vertical member that supports the end of an arch or lintel

d

: an auxiliary mass of masonry used to stiffen a wall

4

: a structural mount (as for a telescope) usually of stonework, concrete, or steel

Synonyms

• dock
• wharf
• quay

Examples of pier in a Sentence

tied the boat up at the pier

Recent Examples on the Web

The beachfront also has a no-fee, 500-foot pier. —Ken Perrotte, USA Today, 31 Oct. 2025

An eyewitness saw him soon after on the pier where Campbell's body was discovered with his car trunk and doors open, according to the brief. —Chris Spargo, PEOPLE, 28 Oct. 2025

Strong longshore currents can sweep swimmers and surfers into rip currents, piers, jetties and other hazardous areas. —Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 27 Oct. 2025

The final phase includes strengthening the main span and two side spans while reinforcing both towers and the south tower pier. —Adrian Rodriguez, Mercury News, 27 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English per, from Old English, from Medieval Latin pera

First Known Use

12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing pier

• pier glass
• pier table

Rhymes for pier

• beer
• bier
• cheer
• clear
• dear
• deer
• drear
• ear
• fear
• fier
• gear
• hear

Kids Definition

pier

noun

ˈpi(ə)r 

1

: a support for a bridge

2

: a structure built out into the water for use as a landing place or walk or to protect or form a harbor

3

: an upright supporting part (as a pillar or buttress) of a building or structure